Ioneer Ltd. and Empire Southwest, LLC have signed a Master Service Agreement aimed at enhancing operations for the Rhyolite Ridge Lithium-Boron Project in Nevada. This partnership is a significant step forward for both companies as they plan to collaborate on sales, services, technology, and equipment rental necessary for the successful development of this critical mining project.
Strategic Partnership to Boost U.S. Mining
Located in Esmeralda County, the Rhyolite Ridge project is recognized as housing the largest undeveloped lithium-boron ore reserve globally, outside of Turkey. As the demand for lithium and boron increases, this project is poised to play an essential role in supporting U.S. manufacturing by re-shoring these critical materials.
Matt Weaver, Ioneer’s Senior Vice President of Engineering & Operations, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Partnering with Empire gives Ioneer added support and expertise as we move into an important operational phase in driving U.S. mining innovation, sustainability, and the secure production of lithium and boron – two urgently needed U.S. critical minerals.” He anticipates that this collaboration will be a long-term relationship, benefiting both parties and the industry.
Empire Southwest, a leading Caterpillar dealer, also emphasized the importance of this collaboration. Dan Harms, Vice President of Mining at Empire, remarked, “We are pleased to partner with Ioneer on the Rhyolite Ridge Lithium-Boron Project, which represents a significant step forward for mining production in the United States.” Harms noted that this partnership aims to support innovative projects that create jobs and deliver long-term value to communities.
Project Timeline and Economic Impact
Ioneer recently announced a major improvement in its ore processing capabilities, cutting processing time in half while increasing annual lithium and boron chemical production by 30% and 15%, respectively, during the initial 25 years of operations. This efficiency will enhance the project’s viability and economic contributions.
The Rhyolite Ridge project is expected to generate hundreds of jobs and approximately $30 million annually in fiscal revenue for state and local governments. Construction is scheduled to commence in 2026, with commercial operations anticipated to begin in 2029.
Ioneer is recognized as a key player in the lithium and boron market, being the sole owner of the Rhyolite Ridge Lithium-Boron Project. The company secured a US$996 million loan from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Dominance Finance Program in January 2025. The project also received its final federal permit from the Bureau of Land Management in October 2024, completing the permitting process that started in early 2020.
The importance of this partnership and project is underscored by Ioneer’s previous offtake agreements with major corporations, including Ford Motor Company and the joint venture of Toyota and Panasonic, reflecting strong industry support and interest in the lithium-boron supply chain.
For further information about Ioneer, visit their official website or follow them on social media platforms. Similarly, details about Empire Southwest and its services can be found on their website, showcasing their long-standing commitment to the mining industry and community development.
